New Years Resolutions: Creating an Emergency Evacuation Plan

Emergency preparedness is key to keeping your family safe during a disaster

With the new year almost here, many find themselves at a time of reflection, renewal and resolution. As we prepare for the start of 2018, one resolution we recommend is creating an Emergency Evacuation Plan for your family and/or business. Having an Emergency Evacuation Plan in place both at home and at work can make the difference in keeping everyone safe when an unexpected emergency situation arises.

Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Bay County to help you prepare:

Have a Designated Meeting Place

In the event of a fire or other disaster, it’s important to have a Designated Meeting Place that’s close enough to your location to be easily accessible, but far enough away to be out of range of any danger. Make sure all individuals are aware of this meeting place, and are physically able to access it.

Design an Evacuation Route

Depending on the size and layout of your home or office, an Evacuation Route could have many variations. Make sure you plan safe routes for individuals to take based on their locations during a given moment when disaster could strike. Each route should lead to your predetermined Designated Meeting Place.

Consider Individual Needs

As you solidify your plan, take into account any individual needs that may require special attention. This could include care of children, pets, medical needs, and having necessary supply items. Discuss these needs with your family or employees, create emergency kits with required supplies, and assign responsibilities to members accordingly.

Learn Basic CPR Skills

It is not uncommon for individuals to get hurt during a disaster – they can become injured, faint, or worse. That’s why it’s important to know basic CPR skills in case lifesaving measures must be taken before paramedics are able to arrive. If possible, make sure each family or team member attends a CPR class.

Disaster can strike at any time, and the safety of your family and employees should be top priority when it does. Having an Emergency Evacuation Plan in place will help you be more prepared to handle any emergency situation that may occur.

If you are creating an Emergency Evacuation Plan for your home, ready.gov offers helpful resources to help you and your family prepare, including a downloadable Emergency Checklist.

If you are a business designing an Emergency Evacuation Plan for your company, follow the OSHA Emergency Action Plan guidelines here.